How to Make Sure the Land You’re Buying Isn’t a Scam

• 
• Dan Walsh

How to Make Sure the Land You’re Buying Isn’t a Scam

Buying land—especially off-grid land—can be one of the most exciting and rewarding decisions you’ll ever make. But with the rise of online land sales, it’s crucial to make sure the land is legit and not part of a scam.

At Off Grid Land LLC, we believe in transparency and ethical land sales. Whether you buy from us or someone else, here’s how to protect yourself and buy with confidence.

1. Verify the Seller’s Identity

Before you send any money or sign contracts, confirm who you’re dealing with:

Ask for the seller’s full name and business details (if applicable).

Look them up online—do they have a website, reviews, or social proof?

 Check the Better Business Bureau, Facebook Business Profile, or Google Maps/Business Profile.

🔺 Red Flag: If the seller refuses to provide information or pressures you to pay quickly, step away.

2. Ask for the APN and Look It Up

Every parcel of land has an Assessor’s Parcel Number (APN). Use it to:

✅ Look up the property in the county assessor or treasurer’s office database.

✅ Verify who owns it and check for unpaid taxes or liens.

✅ Confirm zoning and land use restrictions with the County.

If a seller won’t give you the APN, that’s a major warning sign.

3. Contact the County

A quick call or email to the county where the land is located can save you thousands in potential headaches. Ask:

✅ Who is listed as the owner? (Assessor)

✅ Are there any zoning issues (Zoning/Land Use) or unpaid taxes? (Treasurer)

✅ What are the rules for building, utilities, or septic installation? (Zoning/Land Use)

At Off Grid Land, we always provide county info so you can verify information yourself.

4. Use a Title Company or Attorney (For Higher-Value Deals)

For larger purchases (over $15,000), a title company or real estate attorney can:

✅ Ensure a clean title with no legal issues.

✅ Provide title insurance.

✅ Prevent fraudulent transfers.

For smaller land purchases (under $15K), most sellers don’t use title companies, but it’s highly recommended for more expensive properties.

5. Visit the Property or Use Google Earth

✅ Visit in person if possible! If not, use:

Google Maps & Google Earth to check terrain.

A land app or GIS to confirm boundaries.

✅ Ask for actual photos and GPS coordinates.

✅ Look for access roads, nearby utilities, and terrain issues.

🔺 Red Flag: If the seller refuses to provide recent photos or avoids answering questions about the location, be cautious.

6. Be Wary of “Too Good to Be True” Deals

Scammers use urgency and low prices to rush buyers into paying quickly. If you see:

🚩 5 acres for $500 total? Unlikely legit.

🚩 "You must pay today!" Why the rush?

🚩 No contract, no deed proof? Walk away.

At Off Grid Land LLC, we provide full transparency—including pricing, property details, ownership verification, and template contracts you can review before paying and sales contracts up front before financing or cash payment occurs.

7. Use Safe Payment Methods

✅ Avoid wiring money to unknown sellers.

✅ Credit cards offer buyer protection for downpayments.

✅ If financing, ask for at least a template of promissory notes and land contracts upfront.

🔺 Red Flag: If the seller only accepts cash, gift cards, or wire transfers, it’s a major risk.

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